These carvings are in no particular order, but each one represents a collaborative project between myself and a student. Each carving begins with a student presenting their idea for a carving. After a brief consultation, the student will gather resources for their carving project, which will include photos or drawings that will be used in the design process. Some include text in their design, and this text is generated on a computer to the exact size and typeface required for the pattern.

The design process involves preparing a master pattern on the light table in my studio. A master pattern is a full-sized drawing that includes all the components of the final pattern, drawn accurately onto paper. The master pattern will eventually be transfered - via carbon paper - to a prepared relief panel.

My students will tell you that I am particularly fussy about master patterns, and often require these patterns to be refined more than twice. But the extra effort is worth it. What you see in the pattern will eventually be found in the carving.